Laikipia: Security officers have been urged to step up efforts in tackling electricity vandals, particularly those targeting critical infrastructure like power transformers. Energy Principal Secretary Mr. Alex Wachira has highlighted the rise in electricity vandalism, which is causing economic sabotage, disrupting services, and endangering communities. This call to action was made during his visit to Kandutura village in Laikipia North Constituency, where he commissioned a rural electrification project under the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC). He was accompanied by PS for Wildlife Sylvia Museiya, area Member of Parliament Sarah Korere, and Lamu County Woman Representative Monica Muthoni.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Wachira emphasized the need for the security team to crack down on the vandals who are undermining the government's work. He labeled these individuals as economic saboteurs who are hindering the country's development agenda. Additionally, he announced that the government is considering resuming a project to develop and maintain high voltage power transmission lines and substations. This project stalled after the cancellation of a $736.6 million deal between Adani Energy Solutions and the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (Ketraco), which aimed to improve Kenya's electricity supply reliability and address power outages.
The PS also noted plans to generate geothermal power from the Menengai area in Nakuru County and establish substations in the Ol-Kalou area in Nyandarua County and Rumuruti in Laikipia County to enhance power supply in the region. He stated that the government intends to re-initiate this project through a Public-Private Partnership to ensure its success.